There are several unique selling points and advantages that make macOS a relatively better operating system than Windows from Microsoft, as well as other Linux-based derivatives such as Chrome OS from Google, Debian GNU/Linux, and Ubuntu from Canonical Ltd. Note that this Unix-based operating system developed by Apple has gained a considerable market grip due to effective business and marketing strategies that created a consumer base with strong adherence to Apple products. To each his own nonetheless. There are also numerous drawbacks or disadvantages that make macOS not a competent alternative to Windows.
Pros of macOS: Reasons why Mac computers are better than Windows PC
1. Streamlined user interface without compromising functions
One of the advantages of macOS over Windows is a simpler and more streamlined user interface. Note that both operating systems have convenient and practical graphical user interface or GUI. However, macOS has a more straightforward GUI that is similar to the uncomplicated interface of the iOS found in the iPhone and iPad.
The user workflow of macOS is similar to iOS. For instance, installing and launching apps are almost similar in both Mac computers and iPhones or iPads. This is also true for updating and deleting apps. Apps are primarily available in the App Store. Once downloaded and installed, they are housed in a centralized app drawer called the Launchpad. A single folder destination called Application also houses further details and components related to each app.
Windows has a more complicated user workflow because apps or programs are installed in numerous folder paths and roots. Software updates are not centralized as well. Every program has its own update mechanism unlike in macOS and even in Chrome OS.
A simpler GUI could appeal to individuals who just want to get their work done. However, it is worth stressing the fact that each operating system has its own degree of ease and difficulty. They are not intuitive by default. Nonetheless, when compared to Windows, macOS is cleaner and more upfront. It is as simple as an iOS but as powerful as Windows.
2. Better and consistent operating system and hardware integration
Adherents of Apple products would argue that their MacBook laptops or iMac desktop computers outcompete Windows-based computers due to the seamless software-hardware integration. There is some truth to this claim.
Take note that Apple is both a software developer and a hardware designer. This dual role enables the company to optimize the macOS based on the specifications of the hardware components of a particular Mac computer. The result is a seamless integration between the operating system and the collective hardware. Furthermore, this integration due to optimization results in effective and efficient computing operations.
In the case of Windows, while Microsoft designs and manufactures its own Windows-based computers, there are other Windows-based manufacturers. Some of these manufacturers merely assemble the different hardware components sources from different original equipment manufacturers or OEMs. These random assemblies are susceptible to compatibility and optimization issues.
3. Lesser malware and other security issues or vulnerabilities
Another notable advantage of macOS when compared to Windows and thus, one of the reasons why Mac computers are better than Windows-based PCs is lesser susceptibility to security issues and vulnerabilities. Unlike Windows, there are fewer types malware such as viruses and worms created for macOS.
Of course, while some Apple adherents would claim that their MacBook laptops or iMac desktop computers are completely invulnerable from malware, take note that this is no longer true. The growing popularity of Mac devices is redirecting the attention of hackers toward the development of specific types of malware that would exploit the security vulnerabilities of the macOS.
Apple has managed to keep macOS and Mac computers generally safer than Windows and Windows-based PCs by promoting the use of the App Store rather than downloading apps from third-party sources. Those apps that are available in the App Store have undergone rigorous testing to ensure that they are free from malware or suspicious programming.
It is also worth mentioning that Windows requires rigid maintenance work than macOS that includes scheduling and running anti-malware scans, updating drivers, and individually patching programs. Furthermore, Windows is rattled with clutter and bloatware issues.
4. Bundled with several free productivity applications
A MacBook laptop or an iMac desktop computer comes preloaded with several apps useful for productivity. For example, Apple has its own office productivity app that rivals the Microsoft Office Suite. These apps include the Pages, Numbers, and Keynote, which are equivalents of MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint, respectively.
Mac devices are also preloaded with apps for creative professionals. Examples are the image manipulation app iPhoto and the video-editing app iMovie, as well as the music production app called GarageBand. Other useful apps include the web browser Safari, the email client Mail, and other communication apps such as Messages and FaceTime.
With regard to Windows, the Microsoft Office Suite is usually sold separately. Take note that Both Windows and productivity programs from Windows are very expensive. In addition, Windows-based PCs come with random programs that merely bloat the entire system and available storage space.
5. Specialized and incomparable multitasking feature
Multitasking is another selling point and advantage of macOS over Windows. Note that Windows handles multitasking fairly well, but when compared to macOS, it lags behind considerably. Mac devices have specialized keys and trackpad or mouse gestures for easily switching between apps.
There are also multiple “desktops” that are equivalent to separate workspaces in a macOS. These workspaces allow a user to organize all running apps based on his or her preference. For instance, the first desktop might run all productivity apps while the second desktop might include apps for Internet browsing and media consumption. Switching between desktops is very easy using the dedicated shortcut keys or specific trackpad or mouse gestures,
It is worth reiterating the fact that macOS is specifically optimized for and seamlessly integrated with the hardware components of a particular Mac computer. This means that the overall operation remains smooth and responsive, especially while under heavy use or while a user is multitasking between several running apps.
6. Integration with other Apple products such as iOS devices
One of the remarkable strengths of Apple is that most of its products and services are completely integrated, thus creating a single ecosystem. Take note that the iPhone or iPad works best with a Mac computer, especially for backing up, troubleshooting, and managing the files installed on the particular iOS device.
The seamless assimilation between the macOS and iOS makes switching between devices easy and very intuitive. A user can start a task using an app installed on his or her iOS devices and continue it using an equivalent app installed on his or her Mac computer. This lessens the need to synchronize the device using cables and plugs or upload and download the file or document using cloud-based storage services such as Google Drive and OneDrive.
Synchronizing pertinent data and information such as user information or preferences, address book entries, and messages between a Mac computer and an iPhone or iPad are fairly straightforward. In addition, there are several equivalent apps across the macOS and iOS operating systems that simplify cross-platform usage. Examples of these apps include Pages, Numbers, and Keynote, among others.
Cons of macOS: Reasons why Mac computers are NOT better than Windows PC
1. Mac desktop computers and MacBook laptops are very expensive
One significant disadvantage of macOS over Windows is that devices that use this operating system are very expensive. The fact remains that the MacBook Pro or the standard 12-inch MacBook are very expensive devices when compared to equivalent Windows-based laptops.
Remember that macOS is an operating system built exclusively for Mac devices. Although there are macOS derivatives called Hackintosh. A Hackintosh is essentially a non-Apple or non-Mac computer that runs the macOS. Note that this is illegal. The operating system from Apple remains a proprietary product and users found using a Hackintosh can be sued for violating intellectual property laws, especially pertinent copyright laws.
Nonetheless, the expensive price point of a Mac computer lessens the adaption or market grip of macOS. Remember that Mac computers come with macOS. Budget-conscious consumers are better off buying a Windows-based computer or building their own device using a licensed and purchased Windows operating system.
2. Limited options or flexibility for upgrading the hardware
It has been established that one of the drawbacks of macOS is that it is inherently attached to a Mac computer. This drawback also speaks of another disadvantage: limited hardware upgrade options. For example, some of the hardware components of a MacBook or an iMac such as the CPU or RAM cannot be upgraded easily. Most of these components are soldered and integrated at both design and engineering levels.
On the other hand, a number of Windows-based PCs, including desktops and laptops, provide a high degree of upgrades and customizability. Note that a user can even build his or her own Windows desktop PC based on his or her preference or requirement by purchasing and assembling needed hardware components.
Upgrading and customizing hardware are critical in extending the lifespan of a computer. Even though a Mac computer has a lengthy lifespan due to hardware integration and optimization, a component failure can leave the entire device inoperable, thus requiring repair from Apple tech support. Without a warranty, repairs can be very expensive.
3. Scarcity of game titles and absence of advanced gaming experience
The fact remains that macOS is not attractive to gamers despite the growing popularity of this operating system. Essentially, there are more game titles available for Windows. In addition, there are game titles that are exclusive to Windows. This is another remarkable disadvantage of macOS. Simply put, this operating system from Apple is not for gamers.
Software developers would often develop games for Windows first before developing for macOS. This is because Windows is an established operating system for gamers. Furthermore, some titles from small or independent developers that have gained large following are unavailable for Mac computers. Cross-platform development can be costly.
Hardware is also an issue. Standards MacBook laptops such as the base model of the MacBook Pro or the 12-inch MacBook, as well as the base models of iMac are not built for gaming due to limited RAM and lack of dedicated graphics processors. Remember that most Windows PCs offer a high degree of hardware upgrades and customization. This means that a Window-based computer can easily adapt to changing gaming requirements by featuring the latest and required hardware components.
4. Limited number of apps available in the App Store or other sources
Similar to the scarcity of extensive list of game titles, macOS also suffers another disadvantage steaming from the limited app ecosystem. Windows has more programs, and developers often consider developing and releasing programs for this operating system first.
The favorable predisposition of developers toward Windows comes from the fact that Windows-based PCs are still more popular than macOS or Mac computers. This popularity is due to affordability and accessibility of Windows-based devices. Developing programs for Windows means greater market reach and thus, better profitability. This is especially true for smaller or independent software developers.
Although Mac computers have become more popular in recent years, the fact remains that there are still more Windows users around the world. As a result, Windows simply has more programs available than any other operating systems.
